Molded wall unit including a mounting bracket

ABSTRACT

A bathroom wall unit includes a molded wall panel formed of a polymer and defining a recessed pocket. A flexible substrate supporting mosaic tiles is illustratively coupled to a rear wall of the recessed pocket. Surface treatment is illustratively provided within linear indentations in the wall panel to simulate grout lines. A corner bracket illustratively includes first and second trios of arms supporting seals and defining first, second, and third recesses for receiving mounting flanges of a pair of wall panels and a locking device of an inner sealing body to provide additional seals with the wall panels.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent ApplicationSer. No. 15/044,662, filed Feb. 16, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,504,359,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/738,427, filed Jun. 12, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,506,253, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/117,931, filed Feb. 18, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/012,743, filed Jun. 16, 2014, the disclosures ofwhich are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

The present invention relates generally to molded wall panels and, moreparticularly, to molded wall panels with connecting brackets for use inbathroom tub and shower installations.

It is well known to provide tub and shower wall panels molded from apolymer to simulate ceramic tile. More particularly, such wall panelstypically include indentations between adjacent rectangular raisedportions to simulate grout lines between adjacent tiles. However, suchmolded wall panels often fail to closely resemble ceramic tiles withconventional grout lines. Additionally, such molded wall panelstypically provide a limited number of design options.

Consumers would like to have the ability to customize their tub andshower walls, but often cannot afford a complete tile installation.While many consumers would prefer to have ceramic tile installations,this is often prohibitive due to cost and installation time.

As such, it is desired to provide cost effective, molded wall panelsthat more closely resemble the appearance of traditional ceramic tileand authentic grout lines, and that are simple to install. Additionally,it is desired to provide such molded wall panels that include a varietyof design options that may be customized by the user.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, acorner bracket for a shower enclosure includes an outer receiverincluding an outer receiver body defining first outer recess configuredto receive a first wall panel, a second outer recess configured toreceive a second wall panel, and a center recess positioned intermediatethe first outer recess and the second outer recess. An insert isoperably coupled to the outer receiver, the insert including an innersealing body received within the center recess of the outer receiverbody. A locking device is supported by the outer receiver body and theinner sealing body, the locking device configured to secure the innersealing body to the outer receiver body.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,a corner bracket for a shower enclosure includes an outer receivercoupled to a first mounting stud and a second mounting stud. A body ofthe outer receiver is formed of a first material and includes a firstinner arm, a first middle arm, and a first outer arm. The body alsoincludes a second inner arm, a second middle arm, and a second outerarm. The first outer arm and the first middle arm define a first recess,the second outer arm and the second middle arm define a second recess,and the first inner arm and the second inner arm define a third recess.Both the first inner arm and the second inner arm have a plurality ofraised surfaces extending into the third recess. The corner bracket alsoincludes a first wall panel received within the first recess, a secondwall panel received within the second recess, and an inner sealing bodyincluding a locking device that is received within the third recess andcoupled to the body by the plurality of raised surfaces.

In a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a methodof forming a bathroom wall unit includes the steps of mounting a cornerbracket to a wall stud, coupling a first wall panel to the cornerbracket within a first recess of the corner bracket, and coupling asealing body to the corner bracket and the first wall panel such that afluid tight seal exists at the interface of the first wall panel and thesealing body.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,a bathroom wall unit includes a first wall panel having a front surface,a rear surface, a first side edge, a second side edge, an upper edge, alower edge, a first mounting flange supported by the first side edge,and a second mounting flange supported by the second side edge, and asecond wall panel having a front surface, a rear surface, a first sideedge, a second side edge, an upper edge, a lower edge, a first mountingflange supported by the first side edge, and a second mounting flangesupported by the second side edge. A connecting bracket includes a firstpair of arms having a first inner arm and a first outer arm, a firstrecess defined between the first inner arm and the first outer arm, asecond pair of arms having a second inner arm and a second outer arm, asecond recess defined between the second inner arm and the second outerarm, and a center recess defined between the first inner arm and thesecond arm. An accessory mount extends between an inner end and an outerend, the outer end extending outwardly from the inner end, and an insertsupported by the inner end. The second mounting flange of the first wallpanel is received within the first recess of the connecting bracket, thefirst mounting flange of the second wall panel is received within thesecond recess of the connecting bracket, and the insert of the accessorymount is received within the center recess of the connecting bracket.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the presentdisclosure, a bathroom wall unit includes a first wall panel, anaccessory mount extending between an inner end and an outer end, aninsert supported by the inner end, and a connecting bracket coupled tothe first wall panel. The connecting bracket includes an accessorymounting recess receiving the insert of the accessory mount. A showeraccessory is supported by the outer end of the accessory mount.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,a mounting assembly for a shower enclosure includes an outer receivinghaving an outer receiver body defining a first outer recess configuredto receive a first wall panel, and a second outer recess configured toreceive a second wall panel. An accessory mount extends between an innerend and an outer end, an insert being supported by the inner end andoperably coupled to the outer receiver. A locking device is supported bythe outer receiver body and the insert, the locking device configured tosecure the insert of the accessory mount to the outer receiver body.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the followingdetailed description of the illustrative embodiment exemplifying thebest mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description of the drawings particularly refers to theaccompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative shower enclosureincluding wall units of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view, with partial cut-aways, of a wall unit ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view, with partial cut-aways, of thewall unit of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4A is a flow chart of an illustrative method of manufacturing thewall unit of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4B is a flow chart of an illustrative casting method of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a further illustrative shower enclosureincluding wall units of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the shower enclosure of FIG.5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the top corner between the wall units ofFIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the top corner of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the top corner of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view, in partial cross-section, of the upperend of the corner bracket of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a further illustrative corner bracket foruse with the shower enclosure of FIG. 5;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a further illustrative cornerbracket for use with a shower enclosure;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the corner bracket of FIG. 12 asused in a shower enclosure;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the outer receiver of the cornerbracket of FIG. 12 as used in a shower enclosure;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the outer receiver of a cornerbracket of FIG. 14 with mounted wall panels coupled thereto;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an inner sealing body beinginserted into the outer receiver of the corner bracket of FIG. 12 in ashower enclosure;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a further illustrative shower enclosureincluding an accessory coupled to the illustrative corner bracket;

FIG. 18 is a detailed view of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the illustrative accessorymount of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a further illustrativeaccessory mount of FIG. 17;

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of an illustrative shelf forcoupling with the accessory mount of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of an illustrative bracket forcoupling with the accessory mount of FIG. 20; and

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 22.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention described herein are not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to precise forms disclosed. Rather,the embodiments selected for description have been chosen to enable oneskilled in the art to practice the invention.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a shower enclosure 10 includingillustrative bathroom wall units 12 a, 12 b of the present disclosure isshown. The shower enclosure 10 supports a faucet 14 for controllingwater flow through a showerhead 16. The wall units 12 a, 12 b areillustratively supported by a wall 18 including mounting studs 20. Whilethe wall units 12 are shown for use with a shower enclosure 10, itshould be appreciated that the wall units 12 may be used in a variety ofinstallations, such as in connection with bath tubs, vanities andkitchens.

With reference to FIGS. 1-3, each wall unit 12 includes a molded wallpanel 22 including a front surface 24, a rear surface 26, a first sideedge 28, a second side edge 30, an upper edge 32 and a lower edge 34.The front surface 24 and the rear surface 26 extend between the firstand second side edges 28 and 30. The front and rear surfaces 24 and 26also extend between upper and lower edges 32 and 34.

The molded wall panel 22 may be formed from a polymer, illustratively athermoplastic such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The moldedwall panel 22 may be formed, for example, from an acrylic capped ABS orfrom an acrylic capped styrene material (e.g., Procrylic). In certainillustrative embodiments, the front surface 24 may be generally smoothor planar. In other illustrative embodiments, a plurality of linearindentations 36 may be formed in the front surface 24. In suchembodiments, a plurality of raised portions 38, illustratively of apolygonal shape, are formed intermediate the linear indentations 36. Thelinear indentations 36 are configured to simulate grout lines, while theraised portions 38 are configured to simulate conventional ceramic tile.

The linear indentations 36 illustratively include a plurality ofhorizontal indentations 36 a and a plurality of vertical indentations 36b. As such, the raised portions 38 are illustratively of a rectangularshape. In one illustrative embodiment, the raised portions 38 aresquares, such as 4 inch×4 inch squares or 6 inch×6 inch squares tosimulate conventional ceramic tile dimensions. The polymer of the wallpanel 22 may also be capped with a patterned film (e.g., marble, etc.)to create a more realistic tile-like appearance.

In the illustrative embodiment, a recessed pocket 40 is formed withinthe wall panel 22. The recessed pocket 40 illustratively includes a rearwall 42, a bottom wall 44 and a top wall 46. The recessed pocket 40illustratively has a depth (d) of approximately 0.38 inches to receiveconventional ceramic tiles, such as a mosaic tile assembly 50. The tileassembly 50 illustratively includes individual ceramic tiles 52 ofconventional size and shape, as further detailed herein. While ceramictiles are illustratively used in the tile assembly 50, other materialsmay be substituted therefor, such as glass or stone.

The height (h) of the recessed pocket 40 may vary depending upon thesize, shape and number of mosaic tiles 52 to be inserted within thepocket 40. In an illustrative embodiment, the height (h) of the recessedpocket 40 is between 3 inches and 6 inches. Illustratively, the pocket40 has a height (h) of approximately 6 inches to facilitate insertion ofconventional mosaic tile sheets (typically 12 inches by 12 inches). Themosaic tile sheets would illustratively be cut in half to a length of 12inches and a height of 6 inches for insertion within the pocket 40.

Illustratively, the pocket 40 extends the full width of the wall panel22 between the first and second side edges 28 and 30 (i.e., open ends).In alternative embodiments, the pocket 40 may not extend the full widthof the wall panel 22 and terminate prior to one or both of the sideedges 28 and 30 (i.e., closed end(s)).

Illustratively, the mosaic tiles 52 are supported on a flexiblesubstrate, such as a mesh backing 54. The mesh backing 54 and tiles 52are adhered to the rear wall 42 of the recessed pocket 40 throughconventional means, such as an adhesive 56. Once in position, a finishgrout 58, such as an acrylic, may be used to fill in the gaps betweenadjacent mosaic tiles 52. The tile assembly 50 may be provided with thewall panel 22 as a kit. Alternatively, the tile assembly 50 may beacquired separately by the installer to facilitate customization asdesired by the end user.

Reinforcing ribs 60 may be supported by the rear surface 26 of the wallpanel 22 to further support the wall panel 22 and provide additionalrigidity. The ribs 60 may be spaced at various locations to align withmounting studs 20. In one illustrative embodiment, the ribs 60 may beintegrally molded with the wall panel 22. Inserts 62, such as Styrofoampanels may be coupled to the rear surface 62 of the wall panel 22 foradditional support through contact with wall studs 20. In oneillustrative embodiment, the inserts 62 may be positioned intermediatethe ribs 60.

In certain illustrative embodiments, inwardly extending pockets may beformed within the linear indentations 36 of the wall panel 22 to receiveconventional grout (not shown). For example, the installer may fill thepockets with grout in a manner similar to conventional ceramic tile.

In other illustrative embodiments, simulated grout 64 may be formedwithin the front surface 66 of linear indentations 36 between adjacentraised portions 38 in the wall panel 22. More particularly, the linearindentations 36 may be surfaced treated in order to provide for theappearance of simulated grout 64. As further detailed herein, in oneillustrative embodiment the surface 66 is treated through a laseretching process. In another illustrative embodiment, the surface 66 istreated through a sand blasting process. In yet another illustrativeembodiment, a polymeric colored film may be applied to the surface 66 todefine the simulated grout 64.

In the laser etching process, the surface 66 of linear indentations 36are etched with a laser to turn the simulated grout 64 a differentcolor. The settings of the laser (e.g., intensity, duration) may bemodified or varied to obtain different colors of the simulated grout 64.For example, the simulated grout 64 may be gray, brown or blackdepending upon the laser settings. Additives may be added to the polymerof the wall panel 22 to cause the laser to change the simulated grout 64to a variety of different colors, such as red, blue, etc. Additionally,the laser may be adjusted to create textures within the polymer of thewall panel 22. In other words, the surface 66 may be roughened by thelaser in order to provide a grout-like texture.

In the sand blasting process, a sand or bead blast is utilized to createa grout pattern in the linear indentations 36 of the wall panel 22.Areas of the wall panel 22 that should not be affected (e.g., raisedportions 38) may be masked with a fixture. The sand or beadsetched/embed within the polymer of the indentations 36 and turn it to adifferent color. By changing the color of the sand, different groutcolors may be provided (e.g., black, gray, brown, etc.). The size of thesand/bead grains may also be adjusted to create different textures.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 4A and 4B, in an illustrative method ofmanufacturing 100, the wall panel 22 is formed at block 102,illustratively through applying a thermoplastic, such as ABS or styrenematerial (e.g., Procrylic), within a mold. The wall panel 22 is moldedto define the linear indentations 36 and raised portions 38, along withthe recessed pocket 40. In one illustrative embodiment, the wall panel22 may be molded through a thermoforming process.

With reference to the illustrative panel molding process of FIG. 4B, themold for forming the wall panel 22 may be formed by using a traditionalceramic tile assembly or wall as a pattern or template. Moreparticularly, at block 112 a ceramic tile assembly or wall isillustratively formed by setting and grouting individual ceramic tileson a horizontal support surface. A mold is illustratively cast at step114. More particularly, a fluid material, such as a resin, urethane,aluminum, etc. is cast over the finished ceramic tile assembly at block114 a. The fluid material then sets or hardens at block 114 b. Theceramic tile assembly is removed from the set or hardened material atblock 114 c. The resulting “negative” impression defined by the setmaterial defines a mold used for forming the wall panel 22. Anyadditional desired details (e.g., recessed pocket 40) may be createdwithin the mold, illustratively through machining, at block 114 d.

In an illustrative thermoforming process at block 116, the wall panel 22is formed from polymer applied to the mold to capture the shape, formand texture (including surface irregularities and/or cavities) of theceramic tile assembly. The result is a formed wall panel 22 that lookslike the original pattern with all of the irregularities orimperfections of the ceramic tile assembly, including the tiles, groutand the human interaction in laying the tile.

At block 104 of FIG. 4A, surface treatment is applied to the frontsurface 66 of linear indentations 64 to define simulated grout 64. Suchsurface treatment may be sand blasting and/or laser etching, as furtherdetailed herein.

At block 106 of FIG. 4A, adhesive 56 is applied to the rear wall 42 ofthe recessed pocket 40 and the tile assembly 50 is secured to the rearwall 42. At block 108, finish grout 58, such as acrylic, may be appliedto the tile assembly 50 after it has set to the rear wall 42.

The rear surface of the wall panel 22 illustratively includes mountingmembers, such as the ribs 60, to bring the panel 22 equal to the wallstuds 20 for direct mounting to the studs 20. A hole may be drilledthrough the rear wall 42 of the recessed pocket 40 at the center of thestud 20. The wall panel 22 is then secured to the stud 20 to provideadditional rigidity to the recessed pocket 40. A silicone isillustratively applied to seal the opening. Conventional mountingflanges proximate upper and lower edges 32 and 34 may receive fastenersto secure the wall panel 22 to wall studs 20.

With further reference to FIGS. 5-10, a further illustrative showerenclosure 210 is shown as including many similar components as theshower enclosure 10 detailed above. As such, similar components will beidentified with like reference numbers. The illustrative showerenclosure 210 includes bathroom wall units 212 a, 212 b illustrativelysupported by wall 18 above a base 213 having a drain 215. Translucentshower partitions (not shown) may be supported above the base 213.Mounting channels 217 may receive edges of the shower partitions.

Each wall unit 212 includes a molded wall panel 222 including a frontsurface 224, a rear surface 226, a first side edge 228, a second sideedge 230, an upper edge 232 and a lower edge 234. The front surface 224and the rear surface 226 extend between the first and second side edges228 and 230 and the upper and lower edges 232 and 234. A first mountingflange 236 is supported by the first side edge 228, and a secondmounting flange 238 is supported by the second side edge 230. Similarly,a third or upper mounting flange 239 is supported by the upper edge 232.The first mounting flange 236, the second mounting flange 238 and theupper mounting flange 239 are recessed from the front surface 224 ofeach wall panel 222.

First and second wall panels 222 a and 222 b may be coupled togetherthrough a connecting bracket 240. Illustratively, the connecting bracket240 includes a body 242 having a first pair of arms 244 and a secondpair of arms 246. The first pair of arms 244 includes a first inner arm244 a and a second outer arm 244 b defining a first recess 248, whilethe second pair of arms 246 includes a second inner arm 246 a and asecond outer arm 246 b defining a second recess 250. The first mountingflange 236 of the second wall panel 222 b is received within the secondrecess 250, while the second mounting flange 238 of the first wall panel222 a is received within the first recess 248.

Illustratively, at least one seal 252 is supported by the connectingbracket 240. For example, at least one seal 252 may be supported by thefirst pair of arms 244, and at least one seal 254 may be supported bythe second pair of arms 246. A first inner seal 252 a is illustrativelysupported by the first inner arm 244 a, and a first outer seal 252 b isillustratively supported by the first outer arm 244 b. Similarly, asecond inner seal 254 a may be supported by the second inner arm 246 a,and a second outer seal 254 b may be supported by the second outer arm246 b. As further detailed herein, the outer seals 252 b and 254 b maybe eliminated. Furthermore, the outer arms 244 b and 246 b may beeliminated, wherein the inner arms 244 a and 246 a trap the respectivemounting flanges 238 and 236 of the wall panels 222 a and 222 b againstthe wall stud 20.

Illustratively, the body 242 of the connecting bracket 240 is formed ofa first material, illustratively a polymer such as a polypropylene. Theseals 252 and 254 are illustratively formed of a second material, suchas an elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate (Santoprene™ TPV). Thesecond material is softer than the first material, such that the seals252 and 254 frictionally engage and provide effective fluid sealsbetween the mounting flanges 236 and 238 and the body 242 of theconnecting bracket 240, while the body 242 of the connecting bracket 240provides adequate support to the wall panels 222. Illustratively, thefirst material (e.g., polypropylene) has a hardness or durometer ofapproximately 75 shore D, while the second material (e.g., TPV) has ahardness or durometer of approximately 50 shore A. Illustratively, thebody 242 of the connecting bracket 240 is co-extruded with the seals 252and 254 to form a dual extrusion. More particularly, the polypropyleneof the body 242 and the TPV of the seals 252 and 254 bond togetherduring the extrusion process.

While the illustrative embodiment details co-extruded body 242 and seals252, 254, it should be noted that the body 242 may be formed separatelyfrom the seals 252, 254. For example, the body 242 may be molded from apolymer or extruded from aluminum with a pocket to receive separatelyextruded seals 252, 254. The seals 252, 254 could then be pressed into(or otherwise secured within) the pockets of the body 242.

In one illustrative embodiment, the first arms 244 extend substantiallyperpendicular to the second arms 246, thereby defining a corner bracket240. A plurality of openings 256 are illustratively formed within thebody 242 to receive fasteners (not shown) for securing the bracket 240to the wall 18. The bracket 240 illustratively extends longitudinallyalong the full height of the wall panel 222.

An upper trim or cap 260 may be secured to the upper end of the wallpanels 212 a and 212 b, illustratively through a conventional adhesive.In certain illustrative embodiments, molded cooperating portions of thepanels 222 may replace the cap 260.

In certain illustrative embodiments, an outer corner trim (not shown)may cover the exposed interface or corner joint between the wall panels222 and extends longitudinally parallel to the corner bracket 240.Alternatively, the corner joint may be sealed with a conventionalsealant or caulk.

A further illustrative corner bracket 240′ is shown in FIG. 11 asincluding many similar features of corner bracket 240 detailed above.The corner bracket 240′ includes only inner seals 252 a and 254 asupported by the inner arms 244 a and 246 a, respectively. The innerarms 244 a and 246 a include en.0trant edges 262 and 264, illustrativelycurved portions, configured to assist in guiding the mounting flanges238 and 236 of the wall panels 222 a and 222 b into the recesses 248 and250. Additionally, the outer arms 244 b and 246 b include outer portions266 and 268 extending beyond the entrant edges 262 and 264 of the innerarms 244 a and 246 a, and are configured to receive fasteners, such asscrews 270 to secure to studs in the wall 18.

Installation of the shower enclosure illustratively begins by placingthe base 213 within the rough-in corner defined by the wall 18. The base213 is secured to the wall 18 in a conventional manner.

In one illustrative method of installation, the corner bracket 240, 240′is next secured to the wall 18, illustratively through an adhesiveand/or screws 270. The first wall panel 222 a is secured to the bracket240, 240′, illustratively by lubricating the mounting flange 238 withsoap or lubricant and then sliding the flange 238 into the recess 248 ofthe bracket 240, 240′. The wall panel 222 a is then secured to the wall18 by fasteners, such as screws 270 inserted through upper and sidemounting flanges 239 and 236. Next, the mounting flange 236 of thesecond wall panel 222 b is inserted within the recess 250 of the bracket240, 240′. This process is repeated for additional wall panels 222.Sealant or caulk is then illustratively applied along the corner andbottom joints.

In another illustrative method of installation, a user slides the cornerbracket 240, 240′ onto the first wall panel 222 a and then secures theassembly to the wall 18. More particularly, the flange 238 is slid intothe recess 248 of the bracket 240, 240′. Adhesive is applied to thedesired wall stud 20, and the wall panel 222 a and bracket 240, 240′ arepushed into the rough-in corner. The wall panel 222 a and bracket 240,240′ are then secured to the wall stud 20 illustratively through screws270. Holes may be drilled through the wall panel 222 a and bracket 240,240′ to facilitate insertion of the screws 270. Next, the mountingflange 236 of the second wall panel 222 b is inserted within the recess250 of the bracket 240, 240′. This process is repeated for additionalwall panels 222. The wall panels 222 a and 222 b are then secured to thewall 18 by fasteners, such as screws 270 inserted through upper andouter side mounting flanges 239 and 236, 238. Sealant or caulk is thenillustratively applied along the corner and bottom joints.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14, another embodiment of a connecting ormounting bracket, illustratively a corner bracket 300, is shown within ashower enclosure 10. Corner bracket 300 illustratively includes an outerreceiver 301 and an insert 303. The illustrative outer receiver 301includes an outer receiver body 302 having a first trio of arms 304a-304 c and a second trio of arms 306 a-306 c. First outer arm 304 c andfirst middle arm 304 b define a first outer recess 326 (FIG. 14) toreceive a wall panel 340 a of bathroom wall unit 342 a. Similarly,second outer arm 306 c and second middle arm 306 b define a second outerrecess 328 (FIG. 14) to receive a wall panel 340 b of bathroom wall unit342 b. Illustratively, the wall panel 340 a of bathroom wall unit 342 ais substantially similar to wall panel 222 a of bathroom wall unit 212a, and the wall panel 340 b of bathroom wall unit 342 b is substantiallysimilar to wall panel 222 b of bathroom wall unit 212 b. The firstmiddle arm 304 b is angled away from the first outer arm 304 c to definea lead-in or enlarged opening for the first outer recess 326, and thesecond middle arm 306 b is angled away from the second outer arm 306 cto define a lead-in or enlarged opening for the second outer recess 328.

First inner arm 304 a and second inner arm 306 a extend inwardly fromfirst middle arm 304 b and second middle arm 306 b, respectively. Firstinner arm 304 a and second inner arm 306 a define a center recess 330.The inner arms 304 a and 306 a angle outwardly at open end of centerrecess 330 to define a lead-in or enlarged channel to assist inreceiving the insert 303. The first inner arm 304 a, the first middlearm 304 b, and the first outer arm 304 c are configured to move or flexindependently from each other. Similarly, the second inner arm 306 a,the second middle arm 306 b, and the second outer arm 306 c areconfigured to move or flex independently from each other.

First middle arm 304 b and second middle arm 306 b have seals 327, 329attached thereto respectively. Illustratively, body 302 of outerreceiver 301 is formed of a first material, illustratively a polymersuch as a polypropylene. Seals 327 and 329 are illustratively formed ofa second material, such as an elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate(Santoprene™ TPV). The second material is softer than the firstmaterial, such that the seals 327 and 329 frictionally engage andprovide effective fluid seals between wall panels 340 a, 340 b and body302 of outer receiver 301, while body 302 of outer receiver 301 providesadequate support to the wall panels 340 a, 340 b. Illustratively, thefirst material (e.g., polypropylene) has a hardness or durometer ofapproximately 75 shore D, while the second material (e.g., TPV) has ahardness or durometer of approximately 50 shore A. Illustratively, body302 of outer receiver 301 is co-extruded with seals 327 and 329 to forma dual extrusion. More particularly, the polypropylene of body 302 andthe TPV of seals 327 and 329 bond together during the extrusion process.

While the illustrative embodiment details co-extruded body 302 and seals327, 329, it should be noted that body 302 may be formed separately fromthe seals 327, 329. For example, body 302 may be molded from a polymeror extruded from aluminum with a pocket to receive separately extrudedseals 327, 329. The seals 327, 329 could then be pressed into (orotherwise secured within) the pockets of the body 302.

Insert 303 of illustrative corner bracket 300 also includes an innersealing body 312 that is coupled to body 302. More particularly, alocking device 317 is supported by the outer receiver body 302 and theinner sealing body 312, and is configured to secure the inner sealingbody 312 to the outer receiver body 302. Extending into recess 330 are aplurality of raised projections 316 a (FIG. 14) extending inwardly fromfirst inner arm 304 a and a plurality of raised projections 316 bextending inwardly from second inner arm 306a. The plurality of raisedprojections 316 a, 316 b of the outer receiver body 302 serve tofrictionally engage with a corresponding plurality of raised projections316 c, 316 d of the inner sealing body 312 and define locking device317, as further described below. In one illustrative embodiment, theplurality of raised projections 316 includes a plurality of ridges,teeth, or barbs that are angled along an axis defined by direction A(FIG. 16). In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of raisedprojections 316 are perpendicular with respect to the outer surfaces offirst and second inner arms 304 a, 306 a.

Inner sealing body 312 illustratively includes a first body 336 and asecond body 338. Second body 338 of inner sealing body 312 is formed ofa first material, illustratively a polymer such as a polypropylene.First body 336 is illustratively formed of a second material, such as anelastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate (Santoprene™ TPV). The secondmaterial is softer than the first material, such that first outerportion 318, second outer portion 320, third outer portion 322, andfourth outer portion 324 of first body 336 frictionally engage andprovide effective fluid seals with wall panels 340 a, 340 b, whilelocking device 317 of second body 338 of inner sealing body 312frictionally engages with first and second inner arm 304 a, 306 a ofbody 302 as described in further detail below. Illustratively, the firstmaterial (e.g., polypropylene) has a hardness or durometer ofapproximately 75 shore D, while the second material (e.g., TPV) has ahardness or durometer of approximately 50 shore A. Illustratively, firstbody 336 of inner sealing body 312 is co-extruded with second body 338to form a dual extrusion. More particularly, the polypropylene of secondbody 338 and the TPV of first body 336 bond together during theextrusion process.

While the illustrative embodiment details co-extruded first body 336 andsecond body 338, it should be noted that first body 336 may be formedseparately from second body 338. For example, second body 338 may bemolded from a polymer or extruded from aluminum with a protrusion to beinserted into a pocket of separately extruded first body 336. Secondbody 338 could then be pressed into a pocket of first body 336.

First body 336 includes a first outer portion 318, a second outerportion 320, a third outer portion 322, and a fourth outer portion 324.Outer portions 318, 320, 322, 324 are configured to sealingly engagewith wall panels 340 a, 340 b as described in further detail below.

Second body 338 of inner sealing body 312 includes spaced apart firstarm 332 and second arm 334, which are configured to flex independentlyrelative to each other as they are received within the recess 330.Plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 d are supported on therespective outer surfaces of first arm 332 and second arm 334. Pluralityof raised projections 316 c, 316 d of locking device 317 extendoutwardly from the outer surfaces of arms 332 and 334 and correspond tothe plurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b of first inner arm 304a and second inner arm 306 a as locking device 317 is moved axiallyalong direction A. In an illustrative embodiment, plurality of raisedprojections316 c, 316 d comprise a plurality of ridges, teeth, or barbsthat are angled along an axis defined by direction A and form opposingangles with the corresponding plurality of raised projections 316 a, 316b. In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of raised projections 316c, 316 d are perpendicular with respect to the outer surfaces of firstarm 332 and second arm 334 of locking device 317.

Assembly of the molded wall unit including corner bracket 300 is shownin FIGS. 14-16. As shown in FIG. 14, first outer arm 304 c and secondouter arm 306 c of outer receiver 301 are mounted to a pair of mountingstuds 400 a, 400 b by a pair of fasteners 314, such as screws. In analternative embodiment, fasteners 314 may also include bolts, nails, andthe like. Fasteners 314 are inserted through recessed pockets 310 alongfirst outer arm 304 c and second outer arm 306 c. Recessed pockets 310facilitate easy insertion of fasteners 314, and fasteners 314 ensurethat corner bracket 300 does not move when corner bracket 300 is mountedto mounting studs 400 a, 400 b. In this configuration, recess 326 issubstantially parallel with mounting stud 400 a, and recess 328 issubstantially parallel with mounting stud 400 b.

As shown in FIG. 15, once first outer arm 304 c and second outer arm 306c of body 302 are mounted to mounting studs 400 a, 400 b, wall panels340 a, 340 b are coupled to body 302. Wall panel 340 a is receivedwithin recess 326 (FIG. 14). As an end of wall panel 340 a is insertedinto recess 326, seal 327 resiliently deforms and allows wall panel 340a to enter into recess 326. Once wall panel 340 a is inserted intorecess 326, seal 327 applies an outward force onto wall panel 340 athereby cooperating with first outer arm 304 c to frictionally engagewith wall panel 340 a and hold wall panel 340 a in place. Theinteraction between seal 327 and wall panel 340 a also provides a fluidtight seal at the interface of the two surfaces. Similarly, second wallpanel 340 b is inserted into recess 328. As wall panel 340 b isinserted, seal 329 resiliently deforms to allow wall panel 340 b toenter into recess 328. Once wall panel 340 b is inserted, seal 329applies a force onto wall panel 340 b and cooperates with second outerarm 306 c to hold wall panel 340 b in place. Seal 329 also frictionallyengages with wall panel 340 b to provide a fluid tight seal at theinterfaces of the two surfaces.

As shown in FIG. 16, once wall panels 340 a, 340 b are inserted intorecesses 326, 328, locking device 317 of inner sealing body 312 is movedalong direction A to be inserted into recess 330. As locking device 317moves along direction A, first arm 332 and second arm 334 aresubstantially aligned with a portion of first inner arm 304 a and secondinner arm 306 a. Specifically, the plurality of raised projections 316c, 316 d along arms 332, 334 are substantially aligned with theplurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b along first inner arm 304 aand second inner arm 306 a. Insertion of the second body 338 of innersealing body 312 within the recess 330 is configured to spread the innerarms 304 b and 306 b, thereby causing the seals 327 and 329 to makeimproved sealing contact the wall panels 340 a and 340 b.

Also, first outer portion 318 and second outer portion 320 of first body336 resiliently deform and move inwardly toward first body 336 as theyengage with respective portions of wall panels 340 a, 340 b. As firstand second outer portions 318, 320 move inwardly towards first body 336,inner sealing body 312 becomes temporarily thinner (by arms 332 and 334flexing inwardly) thereby allowing inner sealing body 312 to continue toadvance towards recess 330 along direction A.

As inner sealing body 312 continues to move along direction A, pluralityof raised projections 316 c, 316 d of locking device 317 frictionallyengage with plurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b of body 302.Inner sealing body 312 is continuously advanced into recess 330 untilsubstantially all of the plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 dare frictionally engaged with substantially all of the plurality ofraised projections 316 a, 316 b of first and second inner arms 304 a,306 a. The frictional engagement of 316 a-316 d operates to preventaxial movement of inner sealing body 312 in a direction B, which isdefined as the direction opposite of direction A.

In the illustrative embodiment, frictional engagement of the pluralityof raised projections 316 a-316 d takes place in the form of aratcheting mechanism where a first raised projection on both of theplurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 d frictionally engages with afirst raised projection on both of the plurality of raised projections316 a, 316 b within recess 330 so as to permit movement of inner sealingbody 312 along direction A while preventing movement of inner sealingbody 312 along direction B (FIG. 16). As additional force is appliedonto inner sealing body 312 to further its advancement along directionA, first raised projection of the plurality of raised projections 316 c,316 d will disengage from first raised projections of the plurality ofraised projections 316 a, 316 b, and the first raised projections of 316c, 316 d will continue to move along direction A.

The first raised projections of 316 c, 316 d will then frictionallyengage and subsequently disengage with a second raised projection of theplurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b. This frictional engagementand subsequent disengagement between the raised projections of 316 c,316 d and the raised projections of 316 a, 316 b will sequentiallycontinue until first raised projections of the plurality of raisedprojections 316 c, 316 d reaches the final raised projection of theplurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b. In an alternateembodiment, the final raised projections of 316 a, 316 b aresubstantially thicker than the other raised projections of 316 a, b toprevent subsequent disengagement by the first raised projection of 316c, 316 d and continual axial movement along direction A. At this point,substantially all of the plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 d oflocking device 317 should be frictionally engaged with the plurality ofraised projections 316 a, 316 b of first inner arm 304 a and secondinner arm 306 a.

Once the plurality of raised projections are frictionally engaged withone another as shown by 316 a, 316 c and 316 b, 316 d (FIG. 13), lockingdevice 317 is substantially within recess 330, and first outer portion318 and second outer portion 320 of first body 336 resiliently attemptto return to their original configuration of FIG. 16. By doing this,first outer portion 318 and second outer portion 320 move outwardly fromfirst body 336 and frictionally engage with wall panels 340 a and 340 b,respectively. This engagement results in two additional seals formed atthe interfaces of the first outer portion 318 and the wall panel 340 aand the interfaces of the second outer portion 320 and the wall panel340 b.

In the final configuration of corner bracket 300, third outer portion322 and fourth outer portion 324 also frictionally engage with portionsof wall panels 340 a and 340 b, respectively. The frictional engagementbetween third outer portion 322 and wall panel 340 a results in anadditional seal between first body 336 of inner sealing body 312 andwall panels 340 a. Similarly, the frictional engagement between fourthouter portion 324 and wall panel 340 b also results in an additionalseal between first body 336 of inner sealing body 312 and wall panel 340b. In effect, corner bracket 300 provides multiple fluid tight sealswith wall panels 340 a, 340 b without using caulk or other additionalmaterials for sealing purposes. In one embodiment, corner bracket 300provides 3 pairs of seals to wall panels 340 a, 340 b.

With reference to FIGS. 17-19, a further illustrative shower enclosure210′ is shown as including a shower accessory 402 coupled to a mountingbracket, illustratively connecting or corner bracket 300. Showerenclosure 210′ illustratively includes many features similar to those ofshower enclosures 10 and 210. As such, in the following descriptionsimilar elements will be identified with like reference numbers.

The shower accessory 402 is illustratively coupled to the corner bracket300 by an accessory mount 403 in a manner as detailed above,illustratively within the corner between wall panels 340 a and 340 b. Itshould be appreciated that corner bracket 300 may be located in otherareas of the shower enclosure 210′. As shown in FIG. 18, the showeraccessory 402 illustratively comprises a shelf 404 positionedintermediate an upper portion 303 a of insert 303 and a lower portion303 b of insert 303. More particularly, center recess 330 of outerreceiver 301 receives insert portions 303 a and 303 b above and below,respectively, an insert 405 of the accessory mount 403.

As noted above, corner bracket 300 illustratively includes an outerreceiver 301 having an outer receiver body 302 having a first trio ofarms 304 a-304 c and a second trio of arms 306 a-306 c. A locking device317′ is supported by the outer receiver body 302 and the accessoryinsert 405, and is configured to secure the outer receiver 301 to theaccessory mount 403. As detailed above, the body 302 of outer receiver301 may be formed of a polymer such as a polypropylene.

The accessory insert 405 is positioned at an inner end of the accessorymount 403 and includes a first arm 432 spaced apart from a second arm434. The arms 432 and 434 are configured to flex independently relativeto each other as they are received within the recess 330 of the outerreceiver 301. The accessory insert 405 may be formed of a polymer, suchas a polypropylene.

Locking device 317′ is configured to secure the accessory insert 405 ofthe accessory mount 403 to the outer receiver 301 of the mountingbracket 300. A plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 d aresupported on the respective outer surfaces of first arm 432 and secondarm 434. The plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 d of lockingdevice 317′ extend outwardly from the outer surfaces of arms 432 and 434and correspond to the plurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b offirst inner arm 304 a and second inner arm 306 a as locking device 317′is moved axially outwardly along direction A (FIGS. 19 and 20). In anillustrative embodiment, the plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316d comprise a plurality of ridges, teeth, or barbs that are angled alongan axis defined by direction A and form opposing angles with thecorresponding plurality of raised projections 316 a, 316 b. In analternative embodiment, the plurality of raised projections 316 c, 316 dare perpendicular with respect to the outer surfaces of first arm 432and second arm 434 of locking device 317′.

With reference to FIG. 19, in one illustrative embodiment, the showeraccessory 402 is coupled to an outer end of the accessory mount 403.More particularly, the accessory insert 405 is fixed to the showeraccessory 402, such as a shelf 404. The shower accessory 402 may beformed integral with the accessory mount 403, or separately andsubsequently fixed together. As such, the shower accessory 402 may beformed of a variety of materials, such as a polymer, composite, ceramic,or wood. Illustratively, the shelf 404 includes a first side edge 406extending parallel to the first wall panel 340 a, and a second side edge408 extending parallel to the second wall panel 340 b. An arcuate frontedge 410 extends between the first side edge 406 and the second sideedge 408. The shelf 404 defines an upper surface 412 for supportingshower related items, such as soap, shampoo, etc.

With reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, in a further illustrative embodiment,a universal mount 436 is secured to the insert 405. The universal mount436 illustratively comprises an insert or support member 440 configuredto support the accessory 402. The universal mount 436 is illustrativelyformed from a polymer, such as injection molded from a thermoplastic.The accessory 402, in turn, includes a receiver 438 to receive thesupport member 440. As such, a variety of different types of accessories402 may be interchangeably supported by the mount 436.

Illustratively, the support member 440 of the mount 436 comprises afrustum or a truncated cone, while the receiver 438 of the accessory 402comprises a frusto-conical opening 444. As such, the frusto-conicalouter surface 442 of the support member 440 is configured tofrictionally engage with the frusto-conical inner surface 446 of theopening 444. An upper ledge or wall 448 of the accessory 402 may engagethe support member 440 to provide a positive vertical stop.

A plurality of different shower related accessories 402 may be supportedby the mounting bracket 300. These different accessories 402 may beformed of different materials (e.g., polymers, composites, ceramics,wood, etc.) and perform a variety of different functions. For example,an accessory shelf 404 is shown in FIG. 21, while a bracket 452, such asa razor holder or a toothbrush holder is shown in FIGS. 22 and 23.Additional accessories may include, for example, a hand shower bracket,a shower caddy, a basket, a toothbrush holder, and/or an audio deviceholder.

As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the bracket 452 illustratively includesarcuate first and second arms 454 and 456 defining an opening 458 toreceive, for example, the handle of a razor or a toothbrush (not shown).An upper ledge or wall 460 may engage the support member 440 to providea positive vertical stop.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference tocertain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist withinthe spirit and scope of the invention as described and defined in thefollowing claims.

1. A bathroom wall unit comprising: a first wall panel including a front surface, a rear surface, a first side edge, a second side edge, an upper edge, a lower edge, a first mounting flange supported by the first side edge, and a second mounting flange supported by the second side edge; a second wall panel including a front surface, a rear surface, a first side edge, a second side edge, an upper edge, a lower edge, a first mounting flange supported by the first side edge, and a second mounting flange supported by the second side edge; a connecting bracket including: a first pair of arms having a first inner arm and a first outer arm, a first recess defined between the first inner arm and the first outer arm, a second pair of arms having a second inner arm and a second outer arm, a second recess defined between the second inner arm and the second outer arm, and a center recess defined between the first inner arm and the second inner arm; and an accessory mount extending between an inner end and an outer end, the outer end extending outwardly from the inner end, and an insert supported by the inner end; wherein the second mounting flange of the first wall panel is received within the first recess of the connecting bracket, the first mounting flange of the second wall panel is received within the second recess of the connecting bracket, and the insert of the accessory mount is received within the center recess of the connecting bracket.
 2. The bathroom wall unit of claim 1, further comprising a first seal supported by one of the first inner arm or the first outer arm.
 3. The bathroom wall unit of claim 2, further comprising a second seal supported by one of the second inner arm or the second outer arm, wherein the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms of the connecting bracket are formed of a first material, and the first seal and the second seal are formed of a second material softer than the first material.
 4. The bathroom wall unit of claim 1, further comprising a locking device extending between the connecting bracket and the insert of the accessory mount.
 5. The bathroom wall unit of claim 4, wherein the locking device includes a first plurality of raised surfaces on the first inner arm and the second inner arm extending into the center recess, and a second plurality of raised surfaces supported by the insert of the accessory mount, the first plurality of raised surfaces configured to frictionally engage with the second plurality of raised surfaces.
 6. The bathroom wall unit of claim 1, wherein a universal mounting member is supported by the outer end of the accessory mount, the universal mounting member configured to releasably couple with a shower accessory.
 7. The bathroom wall unit of claim 6, wherein the universal mounting member includes one of a support member or a receiver, and the shower accessory includes the other of the receiver or the insert.
 8. The bathroom wall unit of claim 7, wherein the support member comprises a frustum, and the receiver comprises a frusto-conical opening receiving the frustum.
 9. The bathroom wall unit of claim 6, wherein the shower accessory comprises at least one of a shelf, a hand shower bracket, a shower caddy, a toothbrush holder, and a razor holder.
 10. A bathroom wall unit comprising: a first wall panel; an accessory mount extending between an inner end and an outer end, and an insert supported by the inner end; a connecting bracket coupled to the first wall panel, the connecting bracket including an accessory mounting recess receiving the insert of the accessory mount; and a shower accessory supported by the outer end of the accessory mount.
 11. The bathroom wall unit of claim 10, further comprising: a second wall panel; wherein the first wall panel includes a front surface, a rear surface, a first side edge, a second side edge, an upper edge, a lower edge, a first mounting flange supported by the first side edge, and a second mounting flange supported by the second side edge; wherein the second wall panel includes a front surface, a rear surface, a first side edge, a second side edge, an upper edge, a lower edge, a first mounting flange supported by the first side edge, and a second mounting flange supported by the second side edge; wherein the connecting bracket includes: a first pair of arms having a first inner arm and a first outer arm, a first recess defined between the first inner arm and the first outer arm, a second pair of arms having a second inner arm and a second outer arm, a second recess defined between the second inner arm and the second outer arm, and the accessory mounting recess is defined between the first inner arm and the second inner arm; and wherein the second mounting flange of the first wall panel is received within the first recess of the connecting bracket, the first mounting flange of the second wall panel is received within the second recess of the connecting bracket, and the insert of the accessory mount is received within the accessory mounting recess of the connecting bracket.
 12. The bathroom wall unit of claim 11, further comprising: a first seal supported by one of the first inner arm and the first outer arm; and a second seal supported by one of the second inner arm and the second outer arm, wherein the first pair of arms and the second pair of arms of the connecting bracket are formed of a first material, and the first seal and the second seal are formed of a second material softer than the first material.
 13. The bathroom wall unit of claim 10, further comprising a locking device extending between the connecting bracket and the insert of the accessory mount.
 14. The bathroom wall unit of claim 13, wherein the locking device includes a first plurality of raised surfaces on the connecting bracket extending into the accessory mounting recess, and a second plurality of raised surfaces supported by the insert of the accessory mount, the first plurality of raised surfaces configured to frictionally engage with the second plurality of raised surfaces.
 15. The bathroom wall unit of claim 10, wherein a universal mounting member is supported by the outer end of the accessory mount, the universal mounting member configured to releasably couple with the shower accessory.
 16. The bathroom wall unit of claim 15, wherein the universal mounting member includes one of a support member or a receiver, and the shower accessory includes the other of the receiver or the insert.
 17. The bathroom wall unit of claim 16, wherein the support member comprises a frustum, and the receiver comprises a frusto-conical opening receiving the frustum.
 18. The bathroom wall unit of claim 15, wherein the shower accessory comprises at least one of a shelf, a hand shower bracket, a shower caddy, a toothbrush holder, and a razor holder.
 19. A mounting assembly for a shower enclosure comprising: an outer receiver including an outer receiver body defining a first outer recess configured to receive a first wall panel, a second outer recess configured to receive a second wall panel; an accessory mount including an insert operably coupled to the outer receiver; and a locking device supported by the outer receiver body and the insert, the locking device configured to secure the insert of the accessory mount to the outer receiver body.
 20. The mounting assembly of claim 19, further comprising a center recess positioned intermediate the first outer recess and the second outer recess, the insert of the accessory mount received within the center recess.
 21. The mounting assembly of claim 19, wherein the accessory mount includes an inner sealing body coupled to the insert.
 22. The mounting assembly of claim 21, wherein: the outer receiver body is formed of a first material and includes a first inner arm, a first middle arm, and a first outer arm, the first outer arm and the first middle arm defining the first outer recess, and a second inner arm, a second middle arm, and a second outer arm, the second outer arm and the second middle arm defining the second outer recess, the first inner arm and the second inner arm defining the center recess; the locking device is received within the center recess; a first seal is supported on the first middle arm and extends into the first outer recess; and a second seal is supported on the second middle arm and extends into the second outer recess.
 23. The mounting assembly of claim 19, wherein the locking device includes a first plurality of raised surfaces supported by the outer receiver body, and a second plurality of raised surfaces supported by the insert, the first plurality of raised surfaces configured to frictionally engage with the second plurality of raised surfaces.
 24. The mounting assembly of claim 23, wherein the first plurality of raised surfaces include a first plurality of angled barbs, and the second plurality of raised surfaces include a second plurality of angled barbs configured to be positioned intermediate the first plurality of angled barbs.
 25. The mounting assembly of claim 19, wherein a universal mounting member is supported by the outer end of the accessory mount, the universal mounting member configured to releasably couple with a shower accessory.
 26. The mounting assembly of claim 25, wherein the universal mounting member includes one of an insert or a receiver, and the shower accessory includes the other of the receiver or the insert.
 27. The mounting assembly of claim 26, wherein the insert comprises a frustum, and the receiver comprises a frusto-conical opening receiving the frustum.
 28. The mounting assembly of claim 25, wherein the shower accessory comprises at least one of a shelf, a hand shower bracket, a shower caddy, a toothbrush holder, and a razor holder. 